Guidelines for Safe Transport of Carbon Black

Carbon black can be identified by its HS code: 2803

Self-Heating: Repeated testing has confirmed that carbon black of mineral origin is NOT a self-heating substance. Carbon black has been tested in accordance with the U.N. method, Self-Heating Solids by independent qualified laboratories, and found to be “Not a self-heating substance of Division 4.2.” In addition, carbon black has been tested in accordance with the U.N. method, Readily Combustible Solids, and found to be “Not a readily combustible solid of Division 4.1,” under current U.N. Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods.

Test report: ICBA Self Heating Statement with Dekra Report

Shipping Containers: Reusable shipping containers should be returned to the manufacturer. Paper bags may be incinerated, recycled, or disposed of in an appropriate landfill in accordance with national and local regulations.

Transportation Classifications: Commercial carbon black is not classified as a hazardous material by the following agencies:

• U.N. Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods

• European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods (ADR)

• Regulations concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail (RID), part of the Convention concerning International Carriage by Rail

• European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Inland Waterways (AND)

• International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea — International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code)

• Convention on International Civil Aviation — Annex 18 — Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air

• Canadian Transport of Dangerous Goods Regulations

• International Air Transport Association (IATA-DGR)

• MARPOL 73/78, Annex II

• IBC-Code

• United States Department of Transportation

• Canadian Transport of Dangerous Goods Regulation

• Australian Dangerous Goods Code

It should be noted that carbon black (HS code 2803) is NOT activated carbon (HS code 3802) and is NOT charcoal/carbon (HS code 4402) and there are significant differences as it relates to transport classifications.

For more information on carbon black vs. activated carbon or charcoal/carbon, please review the the following documentation:

• FAQ - Carbon Black: Identification and Classification within IMDG

• Carbon Black and Its Applicability within “Guidelines for the Carriage of Charcoal and Carbon in Containers”

Specific questions regarding transport classification should be referred to your carbon black supplier.